Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. James 1:27(NKJV)

Friday, April 25, 2008

Abel's With His Daddy

Dear Friends,

Please forgive me for not posting any updates. I had planned to write a new update last Tuesday, upon returning home from Tinca. I had already chosen to highlight "Abel" (pronounced Ah-Bel) and had gathered some pictures to share. Lili, the foster mom, had shared with me Monday evening that Abel and Silviu (the foster dad) might be able to return from Bucharest to Tinca for the Easter holiday (Easter is this Sunday). Sadly, we received news on Tuesday morning that Abel had passed away. Abel was a beautiful little 3 year old boy who was born with cirrhosis of the liver, with a live donor transplant expected to take place in May. Romanian Relief took Abel into their foundation due to his medical needs; however, his parents (who are poor rroma(gypsies)) were still involved. In fact, his father had recently agreed to be the donor as he was a perfect match. The funeral services were held yesterday at Abel's parents home. Abel's parents and family are evangelical Christians, so the service was quite unusual for the Foundation workers (who are all Romanian Orthodox). But the message given was one of hope... Hope through Christ, and for this I am so thankful. As Alina (one of the caregivers) and I walked from the home to the cemetery (the usual custom in gypsy communities), we spoke of Abel's life, his ability to change the whole environment with his infectious smile, and how he exuded joy even though he experienced pain. He truly impacted the lives of all who knew him, but I rejoice that he is now resting in his Daddy's arms. Please be praying for his family in the gypsy community and also for his family at the Foundation.

Thank you all for your continued prayers, words of encouragement and support.